On March 1, 2025, the nation will commemorate the National Remembrance Day of the Cursed Soldiers, also recognized as the 'Uncrowned Soldiers', honoring the brave individuals who stood against communist oppression following World War II.
The lead-up to this significant day has seen considerable attention within Poland, especially as historians and citizens reflect on the actions and legacies of those who fought for the country’s independence. According to local historians, the service and sacrifices made by these individuals during the anti-communist insurgency remain ever-relevant and poignant.
Significant historical events lay the groundwork for today's commemoration. After the Soviet Army invaded Poland and dissolved the Home Army (Armia Krajowa), anti-communist resistance groups formed to continue the fight for Polish sovereignty. The most notable of these was the Association of Freedom and Independence (Zrzeszenie Wolność i Niezawisłość), which aimed to unite various underground structures. This led to violent clashes and the brutal suppression of resistance fighters, many of whom faced imprisonment and execution.
One of the most notable events underpinning this observance occurred on March 1, 1951, when seven key members of the last legitimate leadership of the Association were brutally murdered at Warsaw’s Rakowiecka Prison. Their deaths symbolize the price paid for freedom and serve as the chilling reminder of the state’s repression against those allied with the ideals of democracy and independence.
This year’s commemorative events will take place at various historical sites on the Praga Północ district of Warsaw, affiliated with the activities of the Soviet and communist repressive apparatus.
The ceremonies will begin at noon with the first stop at the former site of the Polish Army General Headquarters at Sierakowskiego Street. Participants will then move to key sites—including the former NKVD headquarters and locations marked by the suffering of many Cursed Soldiers.
Notably, at 12:35 PM, the procession will pause at the memorial plaque located at the VIII Liceum Ogólnokształcące, formerly the site of the Red Army Military Court, which operated from 1944 to 1946, reminding attendees of the injustices faced by those resisting communist tyranny.
Following this, at 1:05 PM, attendees will gather at the Izba Pamięci Strzelecka (Memory Chamber), the former headquarters of the NKVD then later the WUBP, where many were tortured and executed. At 2:00 PM, the march will culminate at the Monument to Victims of Praga Prisons, highlighting the plight suffered by Polish patriots.
Among the speakers expected at various checkpoints are historians from the Institute of National Remembrance (Instytut Pamięci Narodowej), providing invaluable insights and detailed accounts of the individuals who endured unspeakable horrors during these tumultuous times.
At 3 PM, the day will culminate with a special mass at the Memory Chamber, dedicated to those who suffered and were killed by the communist regime, allowing attendees to reflect on the sacrifices made.
Throughout the afternoon, visitors will have the opportunity to explore the historical cellars of the Memory Chamber, offering a visceral connection to the very places where countless lives were once lost.
Organizer Arkadiusz Karbowiak of the Society of Lovers of Polish Tradition and Culture expresses his commitment to ensuring the memory of these heroes remains alive, stating, "We must honor their sacrifices and remind the younger generations of their courage and undying love for their homeland." This sentiment resonates not only with attendees but with all Poles aiming to reclaim their historical narrative.
The nationwide recognition of March 1 as the Day of Memory for Cursed Soldiers reflects continued resilience against historical amnesia. It emphasizes the importance of acknowledgment and remembrance of Polish patriots who valiantly fought against oppression, ensuring their legacy is preserved.
Even as debates around terminology—whether to refer to them as 'Cursed Soldiers' or 'Unyielding Soldiers'—rise, the essence of their endeavor remains agreed upon by many. The fact remains: approximately 200,000 individuals participated actively during this insurrection, facing extensive violence and misinformation aimed at discrediting them as mere criminals.
Understanding their narrative within the broader framework of Polish history deepens the discussion as people come together, not just to mourn the past but to celebrate resilience and honor the enduring spirit of those who fought for freedom.
Attending the events this year provides participants not merely the chance to reflect but also to engage with their history actively, serving as both individual and collective healing. The day is not just about the remembrance of past traumas, but about acknowledging their sacrifices pave the way for future liberties.
On this significant day, as echoes of past conflicts resonate through the streets of Praga, the spirit of the Cursed Soldiers remains steadfast among the Polish population, serving as a beacon of hope and continuity.